Here’s a structured English solution guide for CAT 2017 Slot 2 (Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation) based on common question patterns from the exam:
CAT 2017 Slot 2: LRDI (Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation) Solution Guide
1. Section Overview
Total Questions: 24 (12 LR + 12 DI)
Time Allotted: 60 minutes
Key Focus: Critical analysis, logical deductions, and data interpretation.
2. Logical Reasoning (LR) Solutions
Example Question 1: Arrangement of Cities
Question:
Seven cities (P, Q, R, S, T, U, V) are arranged in a row. Conditions:
P is next to Q.
R is not adjacent to S.
T is at one end.
U is not between T and V.
Solution:
Start with T at either end (positions 1 or 7).
If T is at position 1, then U cannot be between T and V. So V must be at position 7, and U at position 2–6.
Apply other constraints to narrow down arrangements.
Valid Sequence: T, P, Q, R, S, U, V (or similar permutations).
Key Takeaway: Prioritize constraints involving fixed positions (e.g., T) and eliminate invalid options.
Example Question 2: Blood Relation
Question:
A family tree with relationships:
Father (F) has three children: A, B, C.
A is married to D; they have two children: E, F.
B is married to G; they have one child: H.
C is a sibling of A.
Solution:
Draw a family tree.
Identify direct relationships:
D is A’s spouse; E, F are their children.
G is B’s spouse; H is their child.
C is F’s sibling (brother/sister).
Answer: Who is G’s sibling? → B (since B is married to G).
Key Takeaway: Visualize relationships using diagrams for clarity.
3. Data Interpretation (DI) Solutions
Example Set 1: Bar Graph (Sales Data)
Question:
A bar graph shows monthly sales (in Lakh) of two products (X, Y) from Jan–Dec 2016.
Task:
Which month had the highest total sales?
What was the % increase in sales of Y from Jan to Feb?
Solution:
Step 1: Calculate total sales for each month by adding X and Y values.
Step 2: Compare totals; March 2016 likely peaks.
Step 3: % Increase = [(Feb Y – Jan Y)/Jan Y] × 100.
If Jan Y = 50, Feb Y = 70 → 40% increase.
Key Takeaway: Use arithmetic shortcuts (e.g., elimination for % changes).
Example Set 2: Caselet DI (Market Share)
Question:
A survey ranks brands A, B, C, D, E in 5 cities. Key data:
Brand A leads in 3 cities.
Brand B trails E in all cities.
Brand C is second in City 1.
Task:
Which brand is last in City 3?
How many cities has D ranked 4th?
Solution:
Step 1: Create a table with cities as rows and brands as columns.
Step 2: Use constraints:
A = 1st in 3 cities.
B < E in all cities.
C = 2nd in City 1.
Step 3: Deduce rankings (e.g., D = 4th in City 3 if A, B, C, E are higher).
Answer: D is last in City 3; D ranked 4th in 2 cities.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize absolute constraints (e.g., "leads in 3 cities") first.
4. General Tips for CAT 2017 Slot 2
Time Management:
Allocate 25 mins to LR and 35 mins to DI.
Skip ambiguous DI questions and return later.
LR Shortcuts:
Use "Process of Elimination" for seating/ ranking puzzles.
For blood relations, map relationships step-by-step.
DI Hacks:
Calculate % changes using base values (e.g., Jan = 100%).
Compare only necessary data (avoid recalculating all bars).
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Overcomplicating LR: Stick to given constraints; avoid assumptions.
Mishandling DI Units: Ensure consistency (e.g., Lakh vs. Crore).
Neglecting Time: Rushing into DI can lead to errors; practice timed sets.
Final Score Strategy: Aim for 90% accuracy in LR (12/12) and 75% in DI (9/12) to clear the 99+ percentile.
Let me know if you need further clarification on specific questions! 🚀
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